During a promotional event for "The Studio," a new series from Variety and Apple TV+, the cast shared their experiences with some of the most memorable and peculiar pitches and notes they've encountered in Hollywood. Director and star Seth Rogen recounted an iconic pitch by Ridley Scott for a potential "Monopoly" movie, while Bryan Cranston reminisced about a modeling gig gone awry. Other cast members also shared their unique stories involving everything from brand-based films to critiques on acting as a dead body.
Insights into Hollywood's Creative Process
In a lively discussion ahead of the screening of "The Studio," Seth Rogen revealed how he vividly remembers a pitch meeting with legendary director Ridley Scott for a rumored "Monopoly" film. During this encounter, Scott envisioned Central Park as a metaphor for a Monopoly board, leaving Rogen and his collaborator Evan Goldberg in awe. However, not all pitches were as inspiring; Rogen humorously mentioned that ideas like a "Hungry Hungry Hippos" or "Doritos" movie have also surfaced within the industry. Meanwhile, Bryan Cranston shared a personal anecdote from his early career when a photographer criticized his physique during a modeling session. Chase Sui, another cast member, recounted receiving feedback to "be deader" while portraying a corpse in a role, highlighting the sometimes unconventional nature of acting notes. Dewayne Perkins added to the mix by describing a request to change a car's color simply based on preference, illustrating how subjective some creative input can be.
The series "The Studio," set to premiere on March 26th on Apple TV+, delves into the life of Matt Remick, portrayed by Rogen, who navigates the complexities of leading a studio amidst the ever-changing landscape of the film industry. Joining Rogen are talented actors such as Catherine O’Hara, Ike Barinholtz, Kathryn Hahn, Keyla Mejia, and Nicholas Stoller.
From the perspective of both a journalist and a viewer, these anecdotes underscore the whimsical and often unpredictable world of Hollywood creativity. They remind us that behind every blockbuster or acclaimed film lies a myriad of ideas, some brilliant, others bizarre, but all contributing to the rich tapestry of storytelling in the entertainment industry. The willingness to share these moments fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the challenges and joys faced by those working in this dynamic field.